Bengals Who Could Be Training Camp Casualties

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Dec 14, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Brandon Tate (19) versus the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

WR Brandon Tate

After recently re-signing their long time veteran wide receiver, Brandon Tate‘s Cincinnati tenure is likely still in question. Although Tate has a penchant for performing well during training camp, something that was noted last August, this year could be a much more competitive battle than in year’s past.

Cincinnati’s top four receiver spots are likely sown up with A.J. Green, Marvin Jones, Mohamed Sanu, and James Wright as presumed roster locks. This means a receiver battle is brewing in the Queen City.

The team recently signed former Raider Denarius Moore, reuniting him with his old (and now current) offensive coordinator Hue Jackson; both are excited about the reunion.

Nov 2, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Oakland Raiders receiver Denarius Moore (17) carries the ball against the Seattle Seahawks at CenturyLink Field. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 30-24. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

"“I’m actually pretty excited about it. I felt like he was a guy that understood me and he knew how to spread the ball throughout the offense,” -Denarius Moore on Hue Jackson “He can run. He has ability. He can get a fresh start here and we’re glad to have him.” -Hue Jackson on Denarius Moore"

Moore brings with him the speed and deep-threat ability the team has been in search of. He also has something else that could impact Brandon Tate’s future in a big way, return ability.

Beyond Moore, the Bengals will likely draft at least one wide receiver in the upcoming draft, and possibly with a high selection. When 2016 rolls around, Cincinnati’s top three receivers (Green, Jones, and Sanu) could all become free agents. Although the team will do everything they can, and likely re-sign Green, nothing is certain and they won’t likely keep all three. This means investing in a receiver in this draft could help take some pressure off the team, and the position, next season while ensuring the team’s depth at the position in 2016.

If the Bengals invest in a receiver early on, Cincinnati will have five roster locks and likely only one (maybe two) receiver slots open. Brandon Tate could end up on the chopping block if he isn’t able to survive what is shaping up to be a fight for his Cincinnati life.

Next: Stripe Hype's Latest 1st Round Mock Draft

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